New K-9 unit welcomed to DeKalb | Urban Wildlife

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DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. -- DeKalb County District Attorney Robert James is proud to introduce a new four-legged member of his staff.

Andy, a five-year-old Belgian Malinois, was recently put up for adoption by the U.S. Army after his handler was wounded in Afghanistan.

"When I heard that Andy would be up for adoption, I jumped at the opportunity," said Assistant District Attorney Jason Beato, who worked with the K-9 while deployed in Afghanistan in 2010. "He will be extremely helpful in the work of our VIPER Unit and can assist other local agencies and municipalities in various roles."

During his three years in the Army, Andy was a multi-purpose K-9 who worked to track bombs, explosives and human scent.

"Andy is being worked into our comprehensive security protocol here at the courthouse as well," James said. "While he still has to become officially certified in his new duties, we are excited to have Andy on board and part of our team. His nose and basic instincts are invaluable."